Rochdale AFC

Following the recent success of the Elite Player Performance Plan Category 3 application, Rochdale AFC are looking to recruit a part time Lead Sport Science / Strength & Conditioning Coach.

An exciting opportunity exists for a highly motivated and enthusiastic Sports Scientist to become a member of the Sport Science and Medicine Department at Rochdale AFC Academy. 

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to be part of a vibrant and dynamic group of Academy staff, and lead the delivery and development of sport science support to Academy players. 

Directly reporting to the Head of Academy Sport Science and Medicine (Gary Thompson) and Academy Manager (Tony Ellis), the post holder will contribute to the achievement of the aims and performance targets of Rochdale AFC Academy through:

 Providing sport science support for Academy Team(s) under the direction of Academy Team Management, Coaching and Support staff.

 Ensuring the short- and long-term strategies of the Academy Sport Science and Medicine Department are implemented within desired timescales.

 Ensuring the day-to-day running of the Academy’s scientific support processes, geared towards achieving the Sport Science and Medicine Department’s vision and strategy.

 Ensuring that the delivery of sport science support effectively meets the nationally audited criteria, and its commitments to players and coaches.

 Assisting in achievement of the Academy’s annual performance targets and the Sport Science and Medicine Department’s SMART targets.

As the Lead Academy Sport Scientist the post holder will:

 Liaise with the Head of Academy Science and Medicine with the development and implementation of the Academy Sport Science and Medicine philosophy that will integrate into the vision and structure of the club.

 Enhance athletic performance through developing, implementing and evaluating strength and conditioning programmes that reflect scientific principles as they relate to adaptation, periodisation, peaking, tapering and injury prevention/rehabilitation. 

 Deliver individual and group strength and conditioning sessions to players within the Academy.

 Deliver scientifically underpinned field- and gym-based conditioning sessions with a view to enhance performance.

 Delivery of sport science services for training and matches.

 Provide the practical implementation of appropriate nutrition and hydration strategies for young players.

 Perform relevant assessments of Academy players’ physical development and provide interventions designed to enhance athletic abilities.

 Ensure that all relevant information collected from players is logged and presented to appropriate staff members.

 Work with Academy coaches and support staff to deliver an interdisciplinary approach to performance development.

 Assist in the continued delivery, progression and development of the Academy’s Coaching Programmes.

The successful candidate should have an appreciation of the scientific underpinnings of team sports, and the capacity to deliver practical sessions in an individual and group environment. Importantly, they should possess a strong team and work ethic. 

Essential:

 A qualification at degree level (or equivalent) in sports science or related area specialising in the area of physical preparation of athletes.

Desirable:

 A qualification at higher degree level (or equivalent) specialising in the physical preparation of athletes.

 UK Strength and Conditioning Accreditation, or ambition to achieve such accreditation within an agreed timescale. 

To match the vision of the Rochdale AFC Academy, the successful applicant will be dynamic and forward thinking, and an excellent communicator and practitioner.

Salary and hours working required to be discussed at interview.

Closing date for applications is July 31st and interviews will take place on an on-going basis.

Please send your CV and a covering letter to:

Tony Ellis

Rochdale AFC

Academy Manager

tony.ellis@rochdaleafc.co.uk 

Spotland Stadium

Willbutts Lane

Rochdale

OL11 5DS